I enjoyed this second book of the series, despite the strong similarities in the plot to the first book. A member of Holly White's circle is implicated in a murder. Holly can't quit thinking about it and can't restrain herself from asking questions about the people who are potentially involved. Threats start arriving almost immediately. At the end of book one, it seemed to be a pretty sure thing that Holly and the sheriff would be romantically involved, but since then their bond has cooled. He has less patience with Holly's independent investigation in this volume (and truly who can blame him?) His concern this time seems much more professional than personal.
Holly’s workload is exhausting! She works in her mother's restaurant, runs Christmas contests outdoors, makes kitschy Christmas jewelry which she sells online, and is supervising the construction of a new inn, which her parents intend her to run. Plus she goes to town regularly to pursue her notions about the murder and spends time with her close friends (albeit often multitasking with one of her aforementioned activities). That kind of schedule would kill wear me right out, plus the unrelenting Christmas themed life would turn me into a Scrooge in no time. Bah, humbug!
One of my favourite details of the book is Holly's rescue cat, Cindy Lou Who (what an inspired name). She is demanding, moody, and rarely affectionate. She regularly dumps her food and water bowls and then loudly demands they be refilled. To Holly's credit, she cleans up and fills bowls with no resentment at all.
Frost gives us several plausible red herrings and plenty of distractions. I didn't positively identify the murderer until Holly did. Frost didn't give us much to work with in that regard to make the connections, so that's not too surprising. But it isn't Sheriff Evan who saves the day in this installment. The circumstances are fitting but not the slightest bit realistic. It's a Christmas miracle for sure.
There's a third book which I will read sooner or later, though I'm not sure what still needs to be resolved. However, I enjoy Frost's writing enough that I will gladly read it. I don't know about you, but I have slightly different standards for Christmas books--I'll put up with more schmaltz than at any other time of year!
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